Formerly redlined neighborhoods in the U.S. face 25% higher extreme heat risk compared to non-redlined areas, a new study finds. The research, published in Climate, shows that historical discriminatory housing policies have left a lasting impact on present-day exposure to climate hazards.
Dr. Jeremy Hoffman from the Science Museum of Virginia and colleagues analyzed maps from the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) that assigned grades to neighborhoods in the 1930s. Areas with minority populations often received “D” ratings, leading to denied services and disinvestment.
The team overlaid these HOLC maps with satellite temperature data, flood risk maps, and EPA air pollution estimates. They discovered that redlined neighborhoods consistently experienced hotter temperatures, worse air quality, and higher flood risk.
“Our study reveals that current maps of environmental hazards are predicated on the legacy of redlining,” said Dr. Vivek Shandas, study co-author from Portland State University.
The findings highlight the urgent need to address environmental justice and protect vulnerable communities disproportionately impacted by climate change. The researchers call for policies that increase green space, improve infrastructure, and provide resources to mitigate climate risk in historically marginalized neighborhoods.
See “Discriminatory ‘redlining’ increases climate risk in disadvantaged US neighbourhoods” (May 17, 2024)
